The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, Fumba Chama, commonly known as Pilato, has responded to public criticism regarding his apparent silence on urgent national issues since his appointment to government.
The former vocal activist and social commentator has encountered backlash from some members of the public who accuse him of abandoning his roots and becoming disconnected from the struggles of ordinary citizens. Critics have even suggested that he has become too “comfortable” in government to speak out, using the local saying, “Pilato talelanda kaili na kwata ifya kulya mukanwa” (Pilato is not speaking because he now has food in his mouth).
However, during an appearance on the Kenny T One-on-One podcast, Mr. Chama clarified that his change in approach is due to the shift in his role — moving from one that focused on highlighting problems to one that requires developing and implementing solutions.
“There needs to be an understanding that when someone is shouting from the streets saying, ‘this has to be done better,’ they are speaking from a position of power,” he stated. “If you have been entrusted with the responsibility to solve those problems, then complaining becomes contradictory — you are the one who is meant to fix them.”
Mr. Chama further elaborated that activism and governance come with different expectations. “As an activist, my role was to shout, ‘awe, ubunga bwadula!’ (mealie meal is too expensive). But now that I’m in government, merely identifying the problem is no longer sufficient — I must take action on it,” he remarked.
He acknowledged that the transition from activism to public service has not been straightforward but reaffirmed his dedication to addressing the very issues he once protested against.
“I may not be there to shout now, because my responsibility is to find solutions to the issues I once raised my voice about,” he concluded.
